Abo was kidnapped at his residence in Zaki-Biam, Ukum LGA of Benue State on September 24
By Kehinde Okeowo
Benue Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Matthew Abo, who was abducted by gunmen at his residence in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State on September 24 has regained his freedom.
This was revealed in a statement made available to journalists by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula.
According to the CPS, Abo who had been in captivity for 10 days was released without any ransom, however, his cousin and former Chairman, Ukum LGA, Mr. Washima Erukaa, who had gone to discreetly discuss his release with the kidnappers were abducted.
Kula went on to say the commissioner has since reunited with his family in Sankera, Ukum Local Government where he was abducted.
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The statement read: “No ransom or any other monetary exchanges were involved in securing his release.
“Rather, his release was as a result of intense pressure on the criminals from the gallant security operatives who were acting on the directives of Gov. Hyacinth Alia, who had earlier given marching orders to them to ensure Mr. Abo’s release.
“However, the criminals are still in custody of the former Chairman, Ukum LGA, Mr. Washima Erukaa and his cousin who it was learnt discreetly went to negotiate with the kidnappers and was also kidnapped.
“His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, who has welcomed back the Commissioner, has warned criminals operating within the State to leave for good, insisting that they will not be tolerated in any form.”
Meanwhile, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Sewuese Anene, confirmed the development on Thursday.
Anene said Abo was released in the early hours of Thursday and has been reunited with his family.
